Kieran McKenna Steps Down as Ipswich Manager

The Departure of Kieran McKenna

Kieran McKenna has stepped down as Ipswich's manager after four and a half years in charge of the Suffolk club, who will return to the Premier League next season.

McKenna's Achievements at Ipswich

The 40-year-old will take a break from management and is understood not to have a position lined up. McKenna had been linked with the vacant job at Fulham, who held an interest in him, but his departure is linked with a desire to recharge and spend more time with his family.

The Impact of McKenna's Decision

It brings an end to a remarkable stint at Portman Road for McKenna, who took over in December 2021 when Ipswich were floundering in League One. By May 2024 they were a top-flight club after winning consecutive promotions in dazzling style. McKenna became one of the hottest properties in Europe after that feat, ultimately signing a new contract with Ipswich, but could not keep them in the Premier League in 2024-25.

The Future of Ipswich Town

He departs on a high after they finished second in the Championship last season, a final-day win against QPR securing their latest ascent. A factor in McKenna's decision is thought to have been the opportunity to bow out on a high at a club where he has attained hero status. He is understood to have reached his decision early last week after a post-season break; Ipswich will be financially protected if he takes a role elsewhere in the coming months.

Reaction from McKenna and Ipswich Chair

“When you have the connection that we have built at this club there is never a good time to say goodbye,” McKenna said. “However, having achieved a second promotion to the Premier League last season, with another memorable final day in our stadium, and after reflection over the last couple of weeks, I feel this is the right time for me to step aside. I do so with great pride at the incredible progress we have made and with huge hope and optimism for the future of this club.

The Ipswich chair, Mark Ashton, said: “The mark he, his staff and his players have made on Ipswich Town and its community will live forever. It has captured a generation.”